The cost of counselling

[morningmarigold]

I've recently been considering a bit of counselling following a difficult life issue that I've recently encountered (that thankfully seems to be resolving). I haven't had individual counselling for years but was astounded to discover that a 50-60 minute session would cost £60.00 and this doesn't seem to be all that unusual. If you wanted to work through something, you might need around 10 sessions say = £600! And I don't live in the South East. Anyone else shocked by the cost of counselling these days. I'm sure a few counsellors will come on here saying they are worth every penny/you can't put a price on health etc. But still, it is hardly accessible to the average person is it?

Lots of counsellors will have concessionary rates for those on benefits - but no, it's not cheap. On the other hand, you're essentially paying for private healthcare by using a private therapist, so it's not entirely surprising that it's quite expensive.

I pay £40 an hour and I'm in the South East. It really depends on who you go to but yes, it's not affordable for everyone.

I found this website very helpful in finding an affordable counsellor.

www.counselling-directory.org.uk/

It’s really quite cheap when you consider that you are paying £60 p/h for a professional’s time plus facility plus insurance etc.

Yes it is expensive, but the average counsellors wage isn't high - £20-26k. Counsellors need to undertake regular training (at own cost), have a supervisor for every 1 in 3 sessions ideally (at a cost to the counsellor of £70 per supervised session -London rate).
It depends how much you feel you need this one to one support. Alternatively you could just seek out free local support groups or online support groups.

I think the existence of the NHS shields us from the true cost of lots of treatments/medicines/etc. Private fees reflect the costs of the therapist's training, supervision and overheads as well as them making a living.

The counsellor I went to see had multiple degrees from renowned universities and a couple of decades' experience working in a range of different settings, including NHS, with complex issues. The setting was extremely discreet and pleasant. I was able to get a convenient appointment within a couple of days. £60 p/h in those circumstances = pretty good value, I think. Especially if you compare it to the cost of say, a plumber.

I think it would be good if that kind of service was available on the NHS, but I don't think the electorate would accept paying the level of taxation that you'd need to fund it.